What sets Generation Z apart from other generations? What drives today’s youth, and what keeps them awake at night? No one can tell us better than Gen Z themselves. That's why we are portraying 24 students from Radboud University. In this episode: Jorik Schuirink, 21, American Studies, loves vinyl records.

‘I think the revival of the vinyl record has to do with a penchant for aesthetics. For a long time, there was a shift towards “practicality”: of course, it’s super convenient to be able to listen to Spotify anywhere. But an album should also be beautiful. I prefer to buy a special edition of a record, something with a nice colour. It’s just cool to hold a large version of your favourite album, with a nice booklet attached.

I now have 175 albums; I only buy new albums. My collection is now worth €5,700. Not that I care about the money, but I can see it in an app where I keep track of my collection.

My parents also have a record collection. I once went along to a record shop and I found myself wanting one too; that’s how it started. But it’s like with tattoos: one is never enough. I’m a radio DJ at RN7, but unfortunately we don’t have a record player there. I like alternative rock, indie, folk, and lately pop.

The renewed love for records is really a Gen Z thing. TikTok definitely played a role in this, with influencers displaying their vinyl haul. But I think it’s here to stay. Gen Alpha will carry on with it. For example, Taylor Swift released four different versions of one of her records, and her fans want them all – not me, mind you.

I’ve convinced myself that music sounds warmer on a record player, but the difference is minimal.’